Peter Colquhoun: the Architectural Intelligence of Mater Prize Home No. 324

For architect Peter Colquhoun, great design is never just about how a home looks… it’s about how it feels, how it functions, and how it ultimately enhances life. Mater Prize Home No. 324 in Burleigh Waters on the Gold Coast is a clear expression of that philosophy, blending sculptural beauty with intelligent planning to create a residence that is both refined and deeply liveable.

“I’m a curves guy,” Peter explains. “Man created right angles, but curves are from nature.” That interplay between the two is central to the home’s architectural language. Throughout the design, soft curves sit confidently alongside strong linear forms, creating a sense of balance and visual intrigue. Adding another layer of depth is the subtle nod to historical Art Deco, paired seamlessly with contemporary design thinking. The result is a home that feels timeless rather than trend-driven, rich in character, yet unmistakably modern.

According to Peter, from the outside, the residence presents as a handsome, almost fortress-like structure, with a strong, solid façade that commands presence. But stepping inside reveals a completely different story. “It’s a little like a shell,” Peter says. “The exterior is quite castle-like, but once you open it up, the inside is warm, light, and luxurious.” This contrast is deliberate, heightening the sense of arrival and discovery as the home unfolds. 

A key strength of the design is the way it balances aesthetics with functionality. The home is laid out on a biaxial plan, with two private wings that mirror each other, creating clearly defined zones for retreat and rest. In these more intimate areas, ceilings are intentionally lowered to foster comfort and privacy. As you move into the central, public spaces, the ceilings lift dramatically, creating a sense of grandeur and openness that flows effortlessly into the terraced alfresco areas.

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Outdoor living is treated with the same importance as the interiors, if not more. The alfresco spaces have been carefully considered, maximising the block and prioritising lifestyle. Each zone offers a slightly different experience, whether it’s entertaining, relaxing, or simply taking in the waterfront setting. This thoughtful allocation of space allows the home to adapt beautifully to different moods and moments.

Despite the scale and sophistication, the design remains cohesive through consistent geometry, recurring curves, and a unified material palette. “There’s a certain level of sophistication in how it all comes together,” Peter notes. “Within the grand plan, there are all these smaller, luxurious zones that make the home feel incredibly relaxing and liveable.”

As a fully furnished waterfront home on the Gold Coast, Mater Prize Home No. 324 offers extraordinary flexibility for its future owner. Whether they choose to embrace it as a family residence, an entertainer’s retreat, or a lifestyle investment, the design allows the space to be used in countless ways. For Peter, being involved with Mater Prize Home adds a deeper layer of purpose to the project. “Good design dovetailing with great science, there’s no greater purpose for a designer.” Supporting Mater’s life-changing work gives this home meaning beyond architecture, turning beautiful design into a force for good.

And for Mater Prize Home supporters, Peter’s message is simple: buying a ticket isn’t just about the chance to win an extraordinary home, it’s about being part of something bigger. “You’re joining a community that’s been changing lives for generations,” he says. “And that should make you feel good.”

As well as the stunning waterfront home in Burleigh Waters, there’s also a Land Rover Defender 110 S, and $100K in gold bullion rounding out the $5.6M prize package. Don’t miss your chance to Win It, Live It, and Love It… all for just $2! Get your tickets now. 

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